How to Move a Wine Collection

Fine wines require special handling, their delicate character and chemistry can be easily affected when transporting. We recommend you consult a Sommelier or Wine Locker for advice.

Step One: Appraisal

Have your wine collection appraised by a qualified professional. The best way to locate a wine appraiser is through a local wine merchant who handles collectable vintages. During your in-home estimate, let your moving consultant know you will be moving wine or other high-value items.

If the value of your collection exceeds $100 per pound, you will need to complete the High-Value Inventory Form. Your moving consultant can provide this form during the pre-move survey and explain the protection plans available to you.

Step Two: Legal Research

Alcoholic beverages are regulated differently state-by-state. Check with the alcohol control authorities at your destination to make sure you’ll abide by the state rules and regulations at your destination.

Step Three: Packing

Chipman can provide specially designed boxes to pack bottles and fragile glassware. Corked wines should be packed on their sides or upside down to keep the corks wet. Bottles that have already been opened cannot be shipped. Wrap bottles individually and insulate the box to ensure your wines travel undisturbed.

Allow the bottles to rest at your destination at least seven days for each day they are in transit. This will prevent loss of flavor caused by bottle shock from the wine shaking within the bottle as it is moved.

Step Four: Climate Controlled Moving

Moving through different climates and changes in environment may affect the taste and appearance of your wine. Most wine experts recommend a consistent temperature of 55 degrees for storing and transporting fine wine. White wines and less expensive brands are less susceptible to damage by temperature.

We recommend you move a small, manageable collection by car, where atmospheric conditions can be better controlled. Use a climate-controlled van to move a large or rare collection. Ask your moving consultant about any arrangements that must be made prior to the move and the additional cost.

The best time to move your collection is early spring or late fall. The temperature in the van during the summer or winter months can be very extreme. If your move must take place in the summer or winter months, you may want to consider moving your collection via a commercial airline.

Step Five: Check your Inventory

Your van operator will prepare an inventory of your shipment prior to loading. When you reach destination, carefully check your household goods and wine collection against the form. Should there be any loss or damage, be sure to note it on the inventory and contact your moving coordinator to file a claim form.

About Chipman Relocation & Logistics

With movers in California, Washington and Oregon, in addition to a worldwide network of agents, Chipman Relocation & Logistics expertly manages residential, commercial and international moves efficiently and to customer satisfaction. Discover the Chipman difference as you relax and turn your move over to us!